Projects / Experience
Avian / Nest Sweeps
RAM Environmental
Clients: AltaLink, Bremner Engineering, Town of Banff,
Town of Canmore, Alberta Parks, Ashton Construction
Conducted pre-construction avian and nest sweeps to identify active nests and protect migratory birds in compliance with federal and provincial regulations. Surveys involved detailed habitat assessments, species identification, and reporting. Collaborated with project teams to recommend mitigation measures and ensure regulatory compliance during infrastructure and municipal development projects.
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Trained in developing and executing nest sweep plans in compliance with regulatory and project requirements
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Able to identify common bird species and nest types relevant to environmental monitoring and protection
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Skilled in selecting appropriate equipment for avian surveys and field data collection
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Knowledgeable in species- and habitat-specific survey techniques to minimize disturbance and ensure data accuracy
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Experienced in designing efficient data sheets for tracking nest activity and reporting survey results
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Capable of communicating effectively with clients and regulators to support compliance and conservation goals
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Trained in developing and executing nest sweep plans in compliance with regulatory and project requirements
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Able to identify common bird species and nest types relevant to environmental monitoring and protection
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Skilled in selecting appropriate equipment for avian surveys and field data collection
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Knowledgeable in species- and habitat-specific survey techniques to minimize disturbance and ensure data accuracy
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Experienced in designing efficient data sheets for tracking nest activity and reporting survey results
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Capable of communicating effectively with clients and regulators to support compliance and conservation goals
Amphibian Surveys
RAM Environmental
Clients: AltaLink, Lake Louise Ski Area
Conducted acoustic and visual amphibian surveys and habitat assessments as part of pre-construction environmental evaluations. Surveys focused on identifying breeding habitats, presence of sensitive or at-risk species. Provided data to support regulatory compliance and informed mitigation planning for infrastructure development and recreational expansion projects.
Environmental monitoring on construction sites
RAM Environmental
Clients: Bremner Engineering, Axis Mountain Technical
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Monitored active construction sites to ensure environmental compliance, with a focus on invasive weed containment, spill prevention and response, and general site evaluations. Responsibilities included identifying and reporting environmental risks, verifying implementation of mitigation measures, and supporting adherence to regulatory and project-specific environmental protection plans.
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Experience monitoring water quality during construction activities to prevent contamination of nearby water bodies
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Skilled in assessing soil quality for contamination and overseeing remediation to ensure compliance with environmental standards and project suitability
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Proficient in implementing biodiversity protection measures, including monitoring for sensitive species and habitats and applying mitigation strategies to minimize ecological impact
Wildlife Surveys
Ram Environmental
Clients: Bremner Engineering, TSMV, Altalink
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Conducted wildlife surveys to identify species presence, habitat use, and potential environmental constraints prior to construction. Monitoring efforts supported environmental impact assessments and informed mitigation planning. Responsibilities included field data collection, species identification (including sensitive and at-risk species), and preparation of reports to ensure regulatory compliance and minimize ecological disturbance.
Volunteer Waterfowl Banding
Volunteer Waterfowl Banding – Delta Waterfowl
Delta Marsh, MB
Assisted with capture and banding of various waterfowl species over multiple field days and seasons. Supported data collection efforts as part of long-term population monitoring and research. Gained hands-on experience in bird handling, species identification, and wetland fieldwork techniques.
Bat Surveys
RAM Environmental
Clients: Axis Mountain Technical, Emerald Lake Lodge, Banff National Park
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Conducted bat monitoring using acoustic detection and visual surveys to assess species presence and activity. Performed habitat assessments to evaluate suitability for roosting and foraging, contributing to pre-construction environmental evaluations and mitigation planning
Owl Surveys
RAM Environmental
Clients: Lake Louise Ski Area, Altalink
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Conducted auditory and visual owl surveys to assess species presence and habitat use in support of pre-construction environmental assessments and mitigation planning
Electrofishing
Ram Environmental
Clients: Altalink
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Conducted electrofishing surveys in Banff National Park as part of pre-construction environmental assessments, identifying fish species and evaluating aquatic habitats to inform mitigation measures and regulatory compliance.
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Trained in electrofishing theory and principles, with a focus on fish behavior and electrical field dynamics
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Proficient in equipment operation and safety procedures for electrofishing in freshwater environments
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Hands-on experience with backpack electrofishing techniques for effective fish capture and monitoring
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Knowledgeable in fish sampling and handling best practices, ensuring minimal stress and accurate data collection
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Skilled in water quality assessment and understanding of environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems
Rachel Boekel - Canmore, AB - 403-373-7579 - sparkbird@rachelboekel.com